Maliki plans to stay in control of Iraq (Reuters/Twitter)

Despite accusations that his sectarian policies gave way to the rise of disgruntled Iraqi rebels, Maliki announced on Friday that he plan to seek a third term as prime minister. 

READ MORE: Iraq To Form New, Inclusive Government?

In a statement read on Iraqiya, the state-run television station, Maliki spoke of his determination to "defend Iraq and its people" agains "terrorists."

While the United States has supported Maliki since he first came to power in 2006, people are quickly losing faith in the Prime Minister, as his antagonistic policies towards the other religious groups in Iraq have prompted the Sunnis and the Kurds to abandon to look for other sources of governance. 

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